MSc Mental Health and Psychosocial Support

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://eresearch.qmu.ac.uk/handle/20.500.12289/13031

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'My soul has no colour' – Exploring the integration experience of South Asian economic migrants: A case study in Scotland, United Kingdom.
(2022)
A great deal of political and public discussion has emerged through theory and policy about refugees and asylum seekers' integration and the experience of their settlement process. However, the experience of other migrant groups seems to be overlooked by both theory and policy. Therefore, this case study aims to explore the integration experience of South Asian economic migrants. The objectives of this study are to understand participants' perspectives on the meaning of integration and the challenges they face in their everyday life. It also explores the effectiveness of integration initiatives such as citizenship and English language tests, employment, housing and education services that are supposed to facilitate appropriate environments where migrant groups can integrate with the host community. Theory and policy argue that there are some similarities between refugees and economic migrant groups regarding their life experiences of racism and discrimination and how such experiences impact their settlement process. However, the findings of this study show that the experiences of the South Asian economic migrant group are significantly different from other migrant groups. For instance, the UK Home Office considered citizenship as one of the fundamental factors for refugees and asylum seekers to integrate into British society. But Participants of this study clearly state that citizenship has very minimal impact on their settlement process. Instead, race equality, positive public perception and reduction of racial discrimination were identified as the key to creating an environment where economic migrants' groups successfully engage with the other community members. Such effective and positive social engagement is essential for successfully integrating the South Asian economic migrant group into British society.
“I don’t think people would know how to reach out”: Receiving communities’ understandings of refugee integration and the consequences for the integration processes and the psychosocial wellbeing of communities in County Durham, England.
(2022)
Background: Despite prevailing UK integration policy proclaiming that integration consists of diverse, multi directional processes that involve changes to both refugee and receiving communities (Home Office, 2019), there has been disproportionate focus on the integration experiences of refugees. The lack of research inquiry into receiving communities not only threatens placing the responsibility of integration onto refugee populations, but further undermines notions underpinning policy, such as that integration is contingent on ‘two-way’ approach, involving reciprocal interactions between both communities. Moreover, excluding local communities from integration processes can have significant implications for threatening the psychosocial wellbeing of both refugee and receiving communities, through exacerbating inter-groups tensions and undermining community efficacy. As such, to address this gap, the present study analyses personal insights, perceptions, and understandings of refugee integration processes at local level from receiving communities in the North-East of England. Methods: Employing a phenomenological approach, a small-scale qualitative study was conducted. This involved obtaining 15 semi-structured interviews from local community members who have lived in County Durham, England, for at least 2 years. To obtain a comprehensive understanding of integration at local level, 5 key informant interviews were also conducted with service providers working to support refugees across the region. Results: 3 higher order themes, and 1 sub-theme emerged from the analysis of the data. These included, ‘Refugee integration and social relations at local level,’ ‘Disenfranchisement of local communities,’ and the ‘Significance of cultural identity and heritage.’ The sub-theme identified was ‘Social media and integration – promising or dangerous development?’ Specifically, a disconnect between refugee services, refugees, and local communities was reported by participants, suggesting that there was inadequate operationalisation of the ‘two-way’ approach in practice. Indeed, this was further understood to undermine the psychosocial wellbeing of both refugee and receiving communities. Conclusions: The 20 participants in the present study revealed a significant disconnect between refugee services, refugee populations, and local community members in County Durham. This was perceived as 7 inconducive to psychosocial wellbeing, and indeed was understood as a barrier integration. To progress in facilitating integration of refugees, recognising local communities as active partners within integration processes is essential.
Displacement: A focus on the mental state of women in Internally Displaced People’s camp Enugu state, Nigeria
(2023-02-13) Unknown author
The mental state of women has been a problem in Nigerian IDP camps due to the camp settings and trauma induced by displacement. The camp in Enugu has poor building infrastructure, insecurity, unavailability of necessities, and poor medical management. These complications influence their psychological well being negatively making recuperation difficult. This leads to an increased decline in their mental state. This dissertation was undertaken as a desk study to examine the mental state of women living in the Enugu IDP camp, monitor health services given to them, hygiene set up at the camp together with the design elements of the IDP camp to determine whether they offer women in the camp standard psychological and social services. Reviewed literature on the mental health of women living in the IDP camp were collected from Research Gate, Science Direct, and Relief Web. Grey literature gathered from organizations such as WHO, UNHCR, and OCHA were also analysed. Conclusions from the researched materials indicate that women living in the Enugu IDP camp need assistance when it comes to health service delivery, sexual and reproductive services, food, sanitation provisions, finances, and protection from gender-based violence and violations of their rights. Further, these women need sustainable long-term support, and their mental state challenges must be addressed for proper recovery, emotional sanity, and merging into the society again.
The risk factors of Post-partum Depression among mothers in Africa: a narrative review
(2023-02-13) Unknown author
Postpartum depression represents a major threat to nursing mothers globally. The consequences of untreated postpartum depression represent a significant threat to both the mother and the health and well-being of her infants. Unfortunately, in low-income and middle-income countries, the prevalence is rising facilitated by numerous risk factors. This review was conducted to evaluate available evidence in the literature regarding the risk factors of postpartum depression in Nigeria and other African countries. The review also considered the availability of maternal mental health and psychological support services and the barriers that influence access to these programs. Three electronic databases were searched with searched in addition to Google scholar. After a thorough screening of initial records, 17 articles were selected for full-text review. The studies selected were published between 2000 to 2023. Reviewed articles reported several socio-demographic factors as risk factors for postpartum depression among African mothers. Some of the risk factors reported were low involvement of partners, violence from an intimate partner, complications from delivery, abuse of substances by the husband of a woman, and lack of social support. In addition, the preferred gender of baby and infant illness. Also, the marriage status of women, their decision-making power, experience with violence and history with depression were all identified as prominent risk factors. Furthermore, the review revealed a shortage of maternal mental health care services and poor-quality services in many instances. Similarly, barriers to access to services include high cost, stigma, lack of mental health knowledge and lack of education. From the findings, it was concluded that most African mothers are ignorant of the dangers of PPD, and policies should be established to ensure proper sensitization and immediate aid for patients of PPD.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: An intervention of promise for mental health consequences of racial discrimination among refugees- A narrative review.
(2023-02-13) Unknown author
Background: Despite yet-unidentified eradicative measures, the poison of racism permeates the fabric of modern society, which is replete with racial discrimination. Regardless, vulnerable populations such as refugees are not impervious to its deleterious impact. While we wait for a definitive solution to racism, it is critical that an intervention be offered to mitigate the psychological effects of racial discrimination on this high-risk population. The mental health consequences of racial discrimination are well documented in the refugee population; however, there is no empirically proven intervention to mitigate its negative effects. Cognitive behavioural interventions (TF-CBT and CA-CBT) may be a novel intervention for reducing the psychological effects of racism among refugees. The purpose of this study is to determine whether CBT has the potential to mitigate the psychological effects of racial discrimination among refugees. Method: A narrative review using a systematic approach to conduct a search in the MEDLINE, PROQUEST, and PSYCHINFO databases. In total, 18 studies were critically reviewed. Findings: The findings' themes emphasize the characteristics of the ideal intervention to mitigate the mental health consequences of discrimination among refugees: multi-layered, transdiagnostic, culturally and ethnically sensitive, school-based, skill-based, and goal-oriented. Conclusion: CBT principles modified to address the positionality (social, historical, and cultural context of refugees) would produce similar results to CBT for mental health disorders caused by pre-migration trauma. Future research is needed to empirically prove CBT as the intervention of choice for reducing the mental health consequences of racism among refugees.
The Other Side of the Masquerade: A Narrative Review on the Impact of Theatre on the Mental Health of Theatre Artists in India.
(2023-02-13) Unknown author
Numerous studies conducted in India have emphasized the impact that theatre can have on performers' mental health. This study contributes to understanding how theatre has impacted the lives of artists who have a history of mental illnesses. Using the narrative literature review, this study explores the metamorphosis of artists with mental illnesses- how they were able to overcome the stigma of mental illness and subsequently walk the path of recovery, through a cathartic experience with the help of theatre, in India. Peer-reviewed literature on the topic were gathered from databases including, Web of Science, Science Direct, Scopus etc. in addition to grey literature from organizational websites such as WHO. Findings demonstrate that people can have a greater understanding of their mental health and a sense of empathy through theatre performances. Scarce yet positive evidence from studies indicates that there can be added value in recovery from mental illnesses through theatrical interventions. Further, we need a unified understanding of mental health and how theatre can help in recovery through more comprehensive measures. Literature indicates ongoing effort to the paradigm with more evidence to come.
MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS STUDYING IN THE UK : A NARRATIVE REVIEW
(2023-03) Unknown author
Mental health of international students studying in the UK is a major public health concern. Due to language and cultural barriers, international students' mental health may be significantly more at risk than domestic students. Students in the UK are reporting more mental health difficulties than ever before. This dissertation is a narrative review to explore the mental health issues faced by international students and the contributing variables to them in order to address the research topics. Additionally, I've looked at how overseas students behave while seeking assistance and how Universities might be able to help them. On Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct, peer-reviewed books and articles were used. A combination of index terms, such as "International Students Mental Health," and key search terms and their synonyms were used to search databases. According to research, foreign students in the UK experience a variety of mental health problems, such as stress, anxiety, sadness, and loneliness. Financial limitations, cultural differences, and language difficulties can all be causes of mental health problems. However, because of several obstacles, the majority of overseas students are reluctant to ask for assistance. In order to offer suitable support and interventions to overseas students, it is crucial for institutions and health professionals to be aware of these difficulties. We need to increase help for coping with the stresses of their new environment as well as improve awareness of the mental health problems that international students encounter.
How Does Socio-Economic Status Impact Postpartum Depression Across Different Cultures?
(2023-08-07) Unknown author
This desk study involved a narrative review of academic literature pertaining to postpartum depression (PPD) and Socio-economic status (SES) in HIC and LMIC countries. A systematic approach was taken to select and analyse the 20 studies included in this study. The evidence indicates that certain factors related to socio-economic status were predictors of higher prevalence and greater severity of PPD. Low income (and related variables such as unemployment and low economic status) was found to the most widely documented factor increasing prevalence and severity of PPD in diverse contexts, followed by low education, being unmarried and strained relationships with one’s partner, family or in-laws. Support resources such as having a supportive partner were found to buffer the onset and severity of PPD, while certain factors related to culture were found to heighten vulnerability to developing PPD and to prolonged depression that may become life threatening for mother and child. These factors related to culture- such as traditional postnatal practices relating to forced confinement, relational systems (relationships with in-laws) and gender norms need to be better within the maternal child healthcare sector in order to improve rapid diagnosis and support for mothers from varying cultural backgrounds. This is particularly relevant in the UK where pregnant women and new mothers from diverse, non-English speaking backgrounds face significant barriers to accessing information on PPD and support services, and where the role of culture in influencing PPD prevalence and well-being outcomes is poorly understood in the healthcare system.
To what extent, and in which ways, do community integration projects in the UK support the psychosocial wellbeing of refugee members?
(2023-08-07) Unknown author
The number of forcibly displaced people worldwide currently sits at 108.4 million, with nearly 329,000 refugees recorded as living in the UK. UK asylum and immigration policy is becoming ever more restrictive with the backdrop of the hostile environment, including no right to work for asylum seekers, the Nationality and Borders Act 2022 and, most recently, the Illegal Migration Act 2023. Such policies serve to disrupt asylum seeker and refugee integration within UK communities, requiring third-sector organisations, including community integration projects (CIPs), to fill statutory gaps. A lot has been written about CIPs but there are still opportunities to discover to what extent, and in which ways, they support the psychosocial wellbeing (PSW) of refugee members, drawing on experience from emergency and humanitarian settings. This narrative literature review of 20 studies overall finds that CIPs support the PSW of refugee members through safe space provision, facilitating meaningful occupation, addressing members’ marginalisation and through contributions to integration strategy. These findings have been analysed in light of the Indicators of Integration framework and the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) core principles, with the author suggesting that support of PSW in integration settings would be facilitated by implementation of the IASC MHPSS principles. The author suggests updating the Indicators of Integration framework to include ‘agency’ under the Facilitators heading, and the creation of guidelines similar to the IASC MHPSS ones for emergencies but for integration settings.
The Impact of Conflict and Displacement in Relation to the Mental Health of Children Affected by Humanitarian Crises in northeast Nigeria – a Narrative Review
(2023-08-07) Unknown author
The Boko Haram insurgency in northeastern Nigeria has destroyed and disrupted the lives of hundreds of thousands of children over the past two decades. The exposure to combat and long-term displacement has resulted in many negative physical and emotional impacts, including poor mental health. Despite multi-million dollar investments in interventions to support the children, many displaced children and adolescents are still struggling with mental health disorders and poor well-being. This narrative literature review examined how the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) sector responded to the children’s mental health and psychosocial needs, in order to identify interventions or factors that most effectively improved the perceived well-being of affected children and youth. The overall aim was to provide guidance to inform future interventions. This review used systematic steps to select and analyse twenty-one (21) pieces of grey and academic literature. Findings revealed that community-based, family-focused and school-based interventions proved effective in various conflict situations and worked best as a social support to stabilise the children emotionally and lessen the impact of circumstances surrounding the stressors of the conflict and displacement. The study also confirmed research that states that negative displacement experiences – such as being unable to attend school - and factors such as being separated from parents, can be main contributors to distress and mental health decline, sometimes even more than prior trauma experienced in war. Further studies on effective coping mechanisms among children and the potential influence of parental cultural attitudes toward mental health on child well- being are recommended.
Tackling poverty to strengthen the mental health of young Nigerian children aged 5–12 years for improved academic Performance.
(2023-08-07) Unknown author
The negative effects of impoverishment on the health of children and their learning development are a genuine problem in Nigeria. Children who grow up in underprivileged circumstances characterised by poor housing, limited access to necessities, and insufficient healthcare frequently experience mental health issues associated with poverty that impede their scholastic success. The tension, depression, and behavioural problems that originate have an adverse effect on their ability to concentrate, focus, and effectively engage in learning activities, which affects their academic progress. This study aims to explore the complex relationship between poverty, mental health, and academic outcomes among Nigerian children aged 5 to 12, specifically in Akwa Ibom State. By understanding the root causes and consequences of poverty, targeted interventions can be developed to address the underlying issues and provide appropriate support to mitigate the negative effects. The research methodology involves a desk-based review to investigate the root causes of poverty and its connection to mental health. Additionally, qualitative data will be gathered through remote interviews with selected participants, primarily teachers, to gain insights into the challenges faced by children in impoverished environments and how they affect their academic achievement. The findings are expected to highlight the critical importance of reducing poverty and strengthening the mental health of young children. Collaborative efforts between government organisations, non-governmental agencies (NGOs), educational bodies, healthcare professionals, and communities are essential for effective interventions that enhance children's mental well-being and academic performance.
EXPLORING THE INFLUENCE OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF ADOLESCENTS LIVING IN DISPLACED PERSON CAMPS IN NORTH EASTERN NIGERIA
(2023-08-07) Unknown author
Background: ongoing violence in the north eastern part of Nigeria has led to a huge number of displaced persons living in various IDP camps all over the northeast and north- central Nigeria. Among those displaced and living in camps are also young people who are exposed to daily stressors in the camps as well as previous trauma experienced before getting to camps. These stressors can predispose these young minds to experimenting with drugs and substances which may affect their mental health. The purpose of the study was to better understand the impact of substance abuse on the mental health of adolescents living in IDP camps. Method: A qualitative study was conducted by interviewing healthcare workers who provide care for adolescents who abuse drugs, a total of eight interviews were conducted Findings: The study findings highlighted the common substances abused are cannabis, tramadol, and cough syrup, other nonconventional inhalants such as glue and sewer sniffing were also commonly abused, with the frequency of use ranging from daily to weekly depending on availability. Services provided commonly was counselling and patients were referred out for rehabilitation. Conclusion: Addressing the problem of substance abuse among displaced persons is very challenging and requires a multifaceted approach and evidence-based strategy that comprises supply control, public campaign, and awareness creation as well as implementation of government policies aimed at service provision and tackling drug peddling.
Mainstreaming Physical Activity as a Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Strategy in the Context of Forced Displacement
(2023-08-07) Unknown author
There is significant research on the beneficial effects of physical activity (PA) on psychological symptoms, functioning and self-efficacy, as well as reducing symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety disorders. Based on this, mainstreaming PA could be a valid Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) strategy in the context of FD, however, it needs to be implemented in a safe way, building on one of the core principles of MHPSS interventions of ‘do no harm’. Currently, there is limited guidance available regarding how to do so appropriately. This primary data study was undertaken to further explore the benefits, identify the risks and mitigation of risks and barriers to scaling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 experts in the field of PA, MH and FD, and the findings were analysed through the conceptual framework, which has been adapted throughout the research process to become the ‘Physical Activity MHPSS Model’. While many benefits were identified, potential risks were also acknowledged, emphasising the need for thorough training of facilitators. This led to the conclusion that the development of international evidence-informed guidelines for PA MHPSS interventions by a multi-disciplinary team, with a strong representation of physiotherapists, could strengthen the credibility and raise more awareness of PA MHPSS interventions among different actors. It would further allow the creation of guidelines to direct targeted training of PA facilitators at each intervention layer, including MH physiotherapists on the top layer of the pyramid, as a core discipline of specialised MH services.
The role of illicit substance use on the development of mental health issues among young adults in Afghanistan: A narrative review.
(2023-08-07) Unknown author
In Afghanistan, the use of illicit substances is an increasing public health issue, especially among young adults (Ayoughi et al., 2012). According to Choi, DiNitto, and Marti (2015), this results in an elevated risk of mental health problems. To respond to the question of what extent illicit drug use contributes to the emergence of mental health problems in young adults in Afghanistan, this dissertation underwent a narrative review to examine the experiences of young adults who use illicit substances and how it impacts their mental health. Peer-reviewed literature on illicit substance abuse in Afghanistan was gathered from three databases, including Pubmed, JSTOR, and Science Direct, and grey literature from organizational websites: UNODC, AREU, and WHO. The findings of this research showed that factors like cultural norms, economic insecurity, conflict, wars, and drug availability influence substance use among young adults in Afghanistan. This study also revealed a link between substance abuse and several poor mental health outcomes, for example, psychosis, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, considerable obstacles, such as a lack of resources, stigma, and political unrest, prevent Afghanistan's healthcare and social support systems from effectively caring for and supporting young adults struggling with substance use and mental health difficulties. Effective treatment and support services, early intervention, harm reduction tactics, and other interventions and techniques have also been identified.
Exploring Factors Facilitating Resilience Amongst Unaccompanied Displaced Young People in Scotland
(2023-08-07) Unknown author
Background: Refugee crisis is very prominent across the world. Many of the refugees are children, and many of them have lost their parents. Mental health difficulties and journey towards resilience of unaccompanied displaced young people are worth exploring to develop effective interventions for them. Purpose: The aim of this dissertation is to explore factors that contributes to the resilience in unaccompanied displaced young people in Scotland. Specifically, this study aims to explore the elements of environment, actions and interventions from the professionals, and coping strategies foster resilience and which factors create barriers in its development. Methods: Qualitative research methodology was used in this study. Thirteen participants working with unaccompanied displaced young people were interviewed. The data was thematically analyzed based on the categories mentioned in the conceptual framework. Findings: Several themes and sub-themes emerged from the analysis. Under the concept of adversity, themes of loss and bereavement, dangerous journey, external trauma came out. Practical problems (practical needs, access to decent accommodation, navigation) and psychological problems (sleep problems, trauma symptoms, homesickness, fear and anxiety, sadness, frustration and confusion, bedwetting) evolved under the concept of problems and symptoms. Themes of agency, control and choice, safety, and trust emerged under environment. The concept of action and interventions has themes of events and celebration, re-building self-esteem, clarity and consistency, professional boundaries, my city and tree of life emerged through analysis. The themes under concept of coping resources were, bonds and bridge, faith, learning and growing, and balancing traditions. The barriers to resilience were oppressive systems, life on hold, language barriers, poverty, media, unhealthy coping mechanism and lack of specialized mental health support. Conclusion: More research on resilience of unaccompanied displaced children is recommended for designing comprehensive trauma- and resilience-focused intervention for them.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS AND TEENAGE PREGNANCY IN NIGERIA: INSIGHTS FROM SECONDARY DATA ANALYSIS OF DEMOGRAPHIC HEALTH SURVEYS
(2024-02) Unknown author
The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of teenage pregnancy in Nigeria, with a specific focus on the influence of sociodemographic characteristics on girls between the ages of 15 and 19. The study employed the ecological systems theory as its framework to investigate the influence of religion, education, wealth index, and geographical area on teenage pregnancy. The ICF provided the secondary data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic Health Survey. The study utilised data collected from a sample of women aged 15-49 residing in 40,427 households. The data were examined using percentages, a Binary Logistic Regression model, and the Pearson Chi-Square Statistic. The study findings indicate that both educational attainment and wealth index exert a substantial influence on the occurrence of adolescent pregnancy in Nigeria. The study also demonstrated that geopolitical zones have minimal impact on teenage pregnancy. Nevertheless, religion has no discernible influence on teenage pregnancy. The study demonstrates the influence of education and economic empowerment on decreasing rates of adolescent pregnancy. It emphasises the significance of developing intervention programmes tailored to individual regions, taking into account cultural subtleties. The study proposed the adoption of a multifaceted approach, encompassing comprehensive sex education, economic empowerment programmes, culturally sensitive interventions, and community-based efforts that engage healthcare practitioners and religious leaders. This study provides valuable insights into the complex nature of adolescent pregnancy and offers ways to address reproductive health issues among teenagers in Nigeria. As a result, it contributes to policy making, education, and the growth of healthcare in the country.
Understanding and Addressing Domestic and Gender Based Violence in India.
(2024-02-12) Unknown author
The study examined how gender-based violence affects women in India. The investigation uncovered a complicated tapestry that allows violence to continue. The origins are firmly ingrained in patriarchal ideals, inflexible gender roles, and little legal protection. The current legal frameworks are discriminatory and unequal, reflecting and encouraging patriarchal and sexist behaviour. Nonetheless, a paradigm shift is essential to improve response and efficacy in preventing gender-based violence. The study's strength lies in its extensive assessment of several facets of gender-based violence in India. The analysis offers a thorough knowledge of the challenges that women encounter. The incorporation of cross-cutting problems such as patriarchy, caste, class, and societal behaviours helps to provide analytical research that portrays India's complex realities. The report acknowledges the limits of traditional legal remedies. Investigating specific legal limits and potential remedies may improve the study's validity. The study suggests personalised therapy that addresses the vulnerabilities of various groups. Strategies include raising cultural standards, empowering women, improving legal and social services, and encouraging accountability. The report emphasised the necessity for legislative changes. However, the focus on India may restrict its generalizability, as metropolitan regions differ; thus, it is critical to exercise caution when extrapolating findings to diverse geographical and cultural settings. Future Directions: To have a more comprehensive understanding of DGBV across several geographies, future studies should focus on metropolitan areas in India. A thorough analysis of the legal framework and proposed adjustments will result in more effective activities. Future research will assess the efficacy of existing therapies in various situations, identifying their successes and shortcomings. The longitudinal evaluation of the success of DGBV interventions could be a valuable source of information for improving and reshaping approaches to understanding and controlling DGBV. This research highlights the prevalence of gender-based violence (DGBV) in India, which is rooted in patriarchal attitudes and lacks proper legal protection. The report emphasises the urgent need for specialised interventions that address different groups' individual vulnerabilities, as well as legislative reforms to build a more equitable legal framework. While the focus on India gives useful insights, caution should be given when generalising findings to other situations. Future studies should strive to broaden the scope of research to include metropolitan regions and analyse intervention effectiveness over time. By doing so, we can better understand and address the complexity of DGBV, ultimately leading to a more just and equitable society for everyone.
EXPLORING THE PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS OF PAID CAREGIVERS IN SCOTLAND
(2024-02-12) Unknown author
Aim: The current research aims to identify the physical and mental health concerns of paid caregivers in Edinburgh, Scotland. In addition, the research would also try to understand the influence of the health concerns of the caregivers on the quality of care. Literature review: The paid caregivers are responsible for providing the necessary care and helping the care recipients in their daily activities. Sometimes due to increasing responsibilities the caregivers often face mental and physical health issues. The mental health issues are related to increasing stress and depression. The physical health concern is observed by lack of sleep or other clinical diseases. The mental health concern of the caregivers impacts the quality of the care as well as the life of the caregivers. Methodology: The methodology for the research has followed a qualitative approach. the data was collected through the primary data collection. The research has included nine participants who are paid caregivers. The nine paid caregivers were selected from one of the nursing homes in Edinburgh. The interviews were conducted in participants' comfort places such as gardens, and café. The thematic analysis has been performed. Findings: It has been found that the paid caregiver's mental health concerns affect the quality of care they are providing, the impact of the health care burden, and the paid caregivers often take short breaks from their responsibilities. Also, as a physical concern, they face sleep deprivation. In addition, they prefer to have organizational management support that would help them reduce the impact of their health concerns.
What is the Relationship between the Support Provided to Displaced Young Syrians (6-17years) in Armed Conflict and their Developmental Outcome - A Desk Study Review
(2024-02-12) Unknown author
The Syrian civil war, which erupted in 2011, has significantly impacted the mental health and development of millions of Syrian children and adolescents due to prolonged exposure to armed conflict. This dissertation investigates the correlation between the support structures available to displaced Syrian minors and their developmental trajectories. Conducting an exhaustive literature review, this study assesses the range of support mechanisms offered to displaced Syrian youth aged 6-17 years and examines their influence on overall well-being and development. The literature search, covering the period from 2011 to 2023, utilized databases such as Medline, PsychInfo, ERIC, and UNICEF resources. Key insights gleaned from 19 chosen studies underscore alarming rates of psychological trauma among conflict-affected Syrian youth, with prevalent conditions including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Psychosocial interventions, support from peers, and the community emerge as crucial in alleviating these challenges and fostering resilience. Nevertheless, significant barriers impede access to services, particularly, unaccompanied minors and children with disabilities. Providing comprehensive psychosocial support across different levels of the socio-ecological system is crucial for promoting recovery and development. Yet, existing literature highlights deficiencies, particularly in policy frameworks concerning legal protections, asylum, and disability rights. There is an urgent call for inclusive, evidence-driven services designed specifically for displaced children, alongside initiatives aimed at dismantling obstacles that worsen the effects of trauma. Fostering community integration and strengthening programs and policies centred around youth can play a significant role in protecting the welfare of Syrian children during this crisis. This evaluation offers essential perspectives to guide humanitarian interventions.
IMPACTS OF HOUSING CRISES ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS IN EDINBURGH
(2024-02-12) Unknown author
Housing as a basic need has been acknowledged as a determinant of various health problems including mental health, when it is inadequate. Considering the demanding nature of advance studies on the postgraduate students, adding housing crisis could be impactful on their mental wellbeing with associated academic challenges. Therefore, this study explored the lived experiences of the postgraduate students facing housing crisis in Edinburgh and the impacts of such experience on their mental health. The influence of the experiences on the academic performance and the expected supports to alleviate the challenges were also identified by the study. This mixed-methods study was conducted among the postgraduate students of Institutes of Global Health and Development at Queen Margaret University using an online survey and focus group discussions for data collection. The survey analysis was descriptive quantitative while reflexive thematic qualitative analysis was used for the data collected from the focus group discussions. Constructivist epistemological position was maintained under the relativist ontological perspective in the course of the study. The majority of the participants with housing crisis were females, international students and with either partner or family. Six themes emerged from the qualitative data set which are unaffordability, instability, support system, discrimination, background drivers, and expectations. This study recommended increased awareness for the student support service and amendment to the university accommodation and general rental policies, to accommodate the diversity in the postgraduate students’ characteristics.